Conditions Treated in Carlsbad & La Costa

Common Orthodontic Conditions

Select a condition below to learn about its causes, warning signs, and how we treat it:

• Crowded Teeth — Crowded teeth occur when there isn’t enough room in the jaw for all of your teeth to fit in their proper positions, causing them to overlap, twist, or push forward or backward.
• Gaps Between Teeth — Gaps between teeth, known as diastema, are spaces that appear when teeth don’t sit snugly against one another.
• Overbite — An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth too much vertically.
• Underbite — An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth sit in front of the upper front teeth when you bite down.
• Crossbite — A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when you bite down instead of slightly outside them.
• Open Bite — An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed.
• Overjet (Protruding Teeth) — Overjet, often called buck teeth or protruding teeth, occurs when the upper front teeth stick out horizontally beyond the lower front teeth.
• Deep Bite — A deep bite is a severe form of overbite in which the upper front teeth almost completely cover the lower front teeth when you bite down.
• Impacted Canines — An impacted canine is a permanent eye tooth that is blocked from erupting into its normal position.
• Shifting Teeth & Orthodontic Relapse — Many adults who had braces as kids notice their teeth slowly shifting back out of alignment.

How We Diagnose Orthodontic Problems

Every evaluation begins with a complimentary consultation that includes digital scans, photographs, and a thorough smile and bite assessment. Dr. Hassey looks at how your teeth fit together, how your jaws are growing or aligned, and how your smile balances with your facial features. Many bite problems aren’t obvious to the eye, which is why an expert evaluation is so important.

Treatment Options for Every Condition

Depending on your diagnosis, age, and goals, we may recommend traditional braces, clear braces, Invisalign or Invisalign Teen, or early Phase 1 care through our orthodontic treatment for all ages program. Many conditions can be treated with more than one option, and Dr. Hassey will help you compare them.

Why Early Evaluation Matters

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Catching conditions like crossbites, underbites, and impacted canines early can simplify treatment and prevent lasting problems. Adults are never too old for treatment, either. Learn more in our orthodontic FAQs, explore our orthodontic services, or see why families choose us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Conditions

Get Answers About Your Smile

Not sure which condition you have? Call (760) 434-2288 - Carlsbad Office or (760) 434-2288 - La Costa Office or request a complimentary consultation at our Carlsbad or La Costa office, and Dr. Hassey will create a personalized plan for you.